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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.